Where requested, AusSafety will produce a noise contour map that details the noise levels across a given work area. They are most beneficial at workplaces with fixed equipment to help determine mandatory hearing protection areas & the class of hearing protection required.

After performing onsite monitoring, AusSafety’s team will compile the data collected into a comprehensive noise report. This report will include all dosimetry readings and worker feedback received, static sound level measurements & other observations made by the hygiene team member. Combining these together we will provide concise conclusions in relation to exposure standards & useful recommendations to help you control worker exposure. All hygiene reports are peer reviewed before being delivered.

All of our personal noise dosimeters, calibrators and sound level meters are calibrated by National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited calibration laboratories. It is important to note that an occupational noise assessment should be conducted any time the following occurs at a workplace:

• installation or removal of machinery or other noise sources likely to cause a significant change in noise levels
• a change in workload or equipment operating conditions likely to cause a significant change in noise levels or exposure times;
• a change in building structure likely to affect noise levels;
• a change to working arrangements affecting the length of time workers spend in noisy work areas;
• or in any event, every 5 years.

Noise Standards

The National Standard for Occupational Noise [NOHSC:1007 (2000)] sets the maximum daily occupational noise exposure level at an eight-hour equivalent continuous A-weighted sound pressure level (LAeq,8h) of 85 dB(A) and, for peak noise, a C-weighted peak sound pressure level (LC,peak) of 140 dB(C). This standard has been brought forward into the model WHS Regulations and those jurisdictions that persist with their legacy health and safety legislation (such as Victoria and WA).

• LAeq,8h of 85 dB(A) means that over an eight-hour shift a worker can’t be exposed to more than 85 decibels. Whether this is exceeded depends on the level of noise involved and how long a worker is exposed to it.
• LC,peak of 140 dB(C) means a worker can’t be exposed to a noise level above 140 decibels. Peak noise levels greater than this usually occur with impact or explosive noise such as sledge-hammering or a gun shot. Any exposure above this peak can create almost instant damage to hearing.